Imagine giant robots, piloted by brave heroes, fighting epic battles across the stars. That’s the world of Gundam! For decades, this incredible franchise has captured imaginations with its thrilling stories and amazing mechanical designs.
But if you’re new to Gundam, or even if you’ve been a fan for a while, choosing which series or model kit to dive into can feel overwhelming. So many different stories! So many different robots! It can be tough to know where to start, and you might worry about picking something you won’t enjoy.
This post is here to help! We’re going to break down what makes Gundam so special and guide you through the exciting universe. You’ll learn how to find the Gundam stories and models that will grab your attention and keep you hooked. Get ready to discover your new favorite giant robot!
Our Top 5 Gundam Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Gundam Detailed Reviews
1. Bandai Hobby – Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury – #03 Gundam Aerial
Rating: 8.7/10
Get ready to build the star of the newest Gundam series! The Bandai Hobby – Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury – #03 Gundam Aerial, Bandai Spirits HG 1/144 Model Kit brings the protagonist’s powerful mobile suit right to your fingertips. This kit captures all the excitement of building and technology in a detailed 1/144 scale.
What We Like:
- The Shell Unit on the chest looks super cool. It uses special in-mold decoration to shimmer.
- You can choose to build the Shell Unit in a glowing or not-glowing state.
- The shield is awesome! It splits into 11 parts called Bit Staves.
- You can attach the Bit Stave parts all over the Gundam.
- You can connect the Bit Stave parts and the Beam Rifle to make a longer rifle.
- Assembly is easy because you don’t need glue.
- The set includes cool accessories like Beam Sabers and a Beam Rifle.
- It comes with special clear parts for the Shell Unit.
- It has an official Bandai Namco label, so you know it’s safe and supported.
What Could Be Improved:
- A hobby nipper is recommended, so you’ll need to buy that separately if you don’t have one.
This Gundam Aerial kit is a fantastic way to experience the world of The Witch from Mercury. It offers a rewarding building experience with impressive details and versatile display options.
2. Bandai Hobby – Gundam: Requiem for Vengeance – #255 Gundam EX (RFV)
Rating: 8.9/10
Get ready to build your own Gundam with the Bandai Hobby – Gundam: Requiem for Vengeance – #255 Gundam EX (RFV), Bandai Spirits HG 1/144 Model Kit! This cool model lets you recreate the awesome Gundam from the “Requiem for Vengeance” series. It’s a fun project for Gundam fans of all ages.
What We Like:
- You can move the beam saber rack to make it look like the Gundam is taking out its sword.
- The ammunition belt is made of soft stuff. It bends with the gun, making it look more real.
- The back of the shield has really neat details.
- You can attach the Gundam’s weapon to the back of its waist, just like in the show.
- Stickers are included so you can make your Gundam look exactly like it does in the series.
- The Bandai Namco warning label on the box means it’s an official Bandai Spirits product. You know you’re getting the real deal.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some small parts might be tricky for very young builders.
- The stickers can be a little challenging to place perfectly.
This model kit offers a fantastic building experience and a great-looking finished product. It’s a must-have for any fan of Gundam: Requiem for Vengeance.
3. Bandai Hobby – Mobile Suit Gundam – 1/144 RX-78-2 Gundam
Rating: 9.4/10
This Bandai Hobby – Mobile Suit Gundam – 1/144 RX-78-2 Gundam, Bandai Spirits Entry Grade Model Kit brings the iconic RX-78-2 Gundam to your fingertips. It’s a fantastic way for beginners to dive into the world of Gundam model building. You’ll assemble your own legendary mobile suit, ready for display or imaginative play.
What We Like:
- Entry Grade design makes it super easy for new builders.
- Snap-fit parts mean no glue is needed!
- The classic RX-78-2 Gundam design is instantly recognizable.
- It’s a great introduction to the exciting hobby of Gunpla.
- The colorless plastic lets you get creative with painting.
What Could Be Improved:
- The colorless plastic requires painting for the best look.
- Some smaller details might be simplified for the entry-level build.
This kit is a brilliant starting point for anyone curious about Gundam models. It offers a rewarding building experience that’s accessible to all.
4. Bandai Hobby – Mobile Suit Gundam Iron Blood Orphans – Gundam Vidar MG 1/100 Model Kit
Rating: 8.9/10
Get ready to build the awesome Gundam Vidar from “Mobile Suit Gundam IRON-BLOODED ORPHANS”! This Master Grade (MG) 1/100 scale model kit brings the iconic machine to life. Mechanical designer Ippei Gyobu himself helped update the Gundam Frame, making this Vidar look even cooler. It’s a fantastic addition to any Gundam fan’s collection.
What We Like:
- No glue needed! All parts snap together easily.
- Amazing color separation. Bandai’s special tech puts four colors on one runner for quick and easy color recreation.
- High quality you can trust. Bandai uses its experience to make sure you get a great product.
- Authentic and officially licensed. Look for the Bandai Namco warning label as proof.
- Detailed design by Ippei Gyobu adds to the model’s appeal.
What Could Be Improved:
- MG kits can be a bit more challenging than simpler grades, so beginners might need a little patience.
- The 1/100 scale means it takes up a decent amount of display space.
This Gundam Vidar model kit offers a rewarding building experience with its clever engineering and vibrant colors. It’s a must-have for fans who want to showcase the powerful Gundam Vidar in their display.
5. TAMASHII NATIONS – Mobile Suit Gundam Seed Destiny – ZGMF-X20A Strike Freedom Gundam
Rating: 9.1/10
Get ready to power up your collection with the TAMASHII NATIONS ZGMF-X20A Strike Freedom Gundam action figure from Mobile Suit Gundam SEED DESTINY! This awesome figure brings Kira Yamato’s powerful Strike Freedom Gundam to life. It’s ready to go right out of the box, no batteries or assembly needed. This portable figure is perfect for any Gundam fan.
What We Like:
- It’s Kira Yamato’s iconic Strike Freedom Gundam!
- No batteries are needed, so you can play right away.
- You don’t have to build it; it comes fully assembled.
- It’s portable, making it easy to take with you.
- The Gundam Universe line offers great detail and articulation.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some collectors might wish for even more intricate paint details.
- Limited articulation in certain joints could be a con for extreme posing.
- The price point might be a bit high for some budgets.
This Strike Freedom Gundam figure is a fantastic addition for any fan of the series. It captures the spirit of the mobile suit and is ready for display or play.
Your First Steps into the World of Gundam: A Buyer’s Guide
So, you’ve seen these awesome giant robots battling it out, and now you want to build one yourself! Welcome to the amazing world of Gundam model kits, also known as Gunpla. It’s a hobby that’s both fun and rewarding. This guide will help you pick your very first Gundam.
What to Look For: Key Features of Gundam Kits
When you’re starting out, look for kits that are easy to build and look great on your shelf.
1. Grade: The Difficulty Level
Gundam kits come in different “grades.” This tells you how complex they are.
- High Grade (HG): These are perfect for beginners. They have fewer parts and are usually simpler to put together. They’re also a good size, often around 5-7 inches tall when finished. HG kits give you great detail without being overwhelming.
- Master Grade (MG): These kits are a step up. They have more parts, which means more detail and often more articulation (the ability to pose the model in cool ways). MG kits are usually larger, around 7-10 inches. They’re a great choice once you’ve built a few HGs.
- Real Grade (RG): RG kits aim for incredible detail in a smaller size, often similar to HG. They use advanced engineering to include lots of small parts and articulation. They can be a bit trickier than HGs but are super rewarding.
- Perfect Grade (PG): These are the biggest and most detailed kits. They have thousands of parts and are for experienced builders. We recommend starting with HG or MG.
2. Articulation: How Well It Poses
Articulation means how many parts of the Gundam can move. Good articulation lets you pose your model in dynamic action poses, like it’s fighting or flying. Look for kits with moving arms, legs, and a head that can turn.
3. Runner System: How the Parts Connect
Most Gundam kits use a “runner system.” This means all the plastic parts for a certain section of the model are on one plastic frame, called a runner. The parts usually snap together easily, so you don’t need glue for most kits.
Important Materials: What Your Gundam Is Made Of
Gundam models are almost always made from plastic. The most common type is polystyrene.
- Plastic Quality: Good plastic feels sturdy and holds its shape well. Cheaper plastic might feel brittle or soft. Most major Gundam brands use high-quality plastic.
Factors That Affect Quality
Several things make a Gundam kit better or less good.
- Detail: How much fine detail the model has, like panel lines (the lines you see on the robot’s armor) and small vents. Higher grades usually have more detail.
- Fit: How well the pieces snap together. Good kits have tight, secure connections. Poorly fitting parts can leave gaps.
- Color Separation: This means how many different colors are molded into the plastic. Kits with good color separation mean you don’t have to paint as much to get a cool-looking robot. Many modern kits have excellent color separation.
User Experience and Use Cases
Building a Gundam is a fun and relaxing activity.
- For Fun: It’s a great way to de-stress and focus on something creative. You can spend a few hours or a whole weekend building.
- Display: Once built, your Gundam looks amazing on a shelf or desk. It’s a cool piece of art that shows off your accomplishment.
- Customization: Some people like to paint their Gundams or add custom stickers. You can make your Gundam unique!
Gundam FAQs for New Builders
Q: What is the easiest Gundam grade to start with?
A: High Grade (HG) kits are the easiest for beginners. They have fewer parts and are designed for simple assembly.
Q: Do I need glue to build a Gundam model?
A: No, most Gundam kits are snap-fit. You don’t need glue. You might want special tools, though.
Q: What tools do I need for building Gundam?
A: You’ll need nippers (special clippers) to cut parts from the runners, a hobby knife for cleaning up nubs, and maybe tweezers for stickers.
Q: How long does it take to build a Gundam model?
A: It depends on the grade and your speed. A simple HG might take 1-3 hours, while a more complex Master Grade could take 5-10 hours or more.
Q: What does “articulation” mean for Gundam?
A: Articulation refers to how many parts of the Gundam model can move and bend, allowing you to pose it in different action stances.
Q: Are Gundam kits expensive?
A: Prices vary. High Grade kits are usually the most affordable, often ranging from $15-$30. Master Grade and higher grades cost more.
Q: Where can I buy Gundam kits?
A: You can find them at hobby stores, online retailers like Amazon, and specialized Gundam model shops.
Q: Can I paint my Gundam model?
A: Yes! Painting is a popular way to customize your Gundam. You can use acrylic or spray paints designed for plastic models.
Q: What is a “nub mark” on a Gundam model?
A: A nub mark is a small bump left on a plastic part after you cut it from the runner. You can clean these up with a hobby knife or sandpaper for a smoother finish.
Q: How do I choose my first Gundam?
A: Start with a High Grade kit of a mobile suit you like. Look for kits with good reviews for ease of assembly and detail.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.